Most oral contraceptives (birth control pills) come in a 28-day pack. The first 21 pills contain a combination of estrogen and progesterone that prevent ovulation and therefore pregnancy. The last 7 pills in the pack are placebo pills without any hormones. While you’re on the last pills of the pack, you will experience a period of withdrawal bleeding similar to a period. However, the biological processes behind withdraw bleeding are different from those that happen during menstruation. Many women experience shorter, lighter periods while on birth control pills. [1] X Research source

This is not guaranteed to work, but if you stick with it over a number of months your body will likely adjust and begin to have shorter periods. Determination is key as many women do not get results until 3 or so months of consistent use.

Note that this will not necessarily shorten your periods, but it will make them less frequent, so it may be a very good option for you to try.

One of the most common side effects is breakthrough bleeding and spotting. What this means is you may have some bleeding or spotting even on the days when you are taking hormone pills, as your body adjusts to having an “external” (outside) source of hormones. This will likely go away after using the pill for a few months consistently. Other possible side effects include breast tenderness, nausea, stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea or constipation, or weight gain. Note that, if you continue to have unwanted side effects with your current birth control pill, you can always speak to your doctor about switching to another brand. Different pills have different ratios of estrogen to progesterone, and it often takes women a few tries to find the pill that is right for them.

The copper IUD is cheaper and lasts longer (up to 10 years), but it also is known to cause heavier periods and more cramping, so this would not be the right choice for you if you are trying to shorten (and/or lighten) your periods. The Mirena IUD, however, is an excellent choice. It is made up of progesterone (a female hormone) and is the “gold standard” form of birth control. It is nearly 100% effective at preventing pregnancy, lasts for up to 5 years, and also significantly lightens periods (and, for some women, actually gets rid of periods altogether). The downside to the Mirena IUD is cost, which is normally a few hundred dollars. However, if you are able to get one, it is by far your best bet at having shorter and lighter periods.

However, women who are educated around IUDs are far more likely to get them put in, as they realize that the benefits are numerous. Not only are periods lighter and shorter, it is also the most effective form of contraception, and, despite the initial cost, over the course of 5 years it actually costs less than continually purchasing birth control pills.

While the duration and intensity of menstrual cycles vary between women, there are several factors that might warrant medical concern. If you need to use double sanitary protection to control flow, pass blood clots more than one day of your cycle, soak through a sanitary napkin or tampon within an hour, must change menstrual protection during the night, have periods that last longer than week, or have symptoms like tiredness and shortness of breath you should see your gynecologist. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source There are a number of possible causes for abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding. Causes can range from fairly benign hormone imbalances, such as an under-active thyroid, or certain medications, but they can also be quite serious. Certain cancers and ovarian diseases can cause abnormal bleeding. Your doctor should be able to figure out the cause by performing a routine pelvic exam and taking stock of your medical history. Additional blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasounds may be needed depending on what your doctor suspects is the cause. [9] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Treatment depends on the cause of the bleeding. Iron supplements, ibuprofen, oral contraceptives, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) may help reduce symptoms. [10] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Before your appointment, make sure you know about any pre-appointment instructions such as not eating the night before or tracking your cycle. You should also have a list of any medications you are on, any recent changes in your life, the symptoms you’re experiencing, and any questions you might have for your doctor. [11] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

If you are overweight, you might want to consider talking to your doctor about a healthy weight loss plan. Maintaining a healthy weight can help you periods be shorter and lighter overall. Regardless of weight, women who live sedentary lifestyles tend to have longer periods. Moderate physical activity, in the form of 45 minutes to an hour of exercise a day, can result in shorter periods. Exercise can come in the form a sport you enjoy, a brisk walk, cardiovascular exercise, or jogging. [12] X Research source Be careful about overdoing it. Sometimes, excessive exercise can cause menstruation to stop altogether. This can be dangerous, especially if you’re not getting the proper nutrients while working out. You should always consult your doctor before adjusting your workout routine. [13] X Research source

A diet rich in complex carbohydrates, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, while low in sugar and alcohol can reduce symptoms like cramping and mood swings associated with menstruation. It may also shorten the overall length of your menstrual cycle. [14] X Research source A few studies exist that indicate a low fat diet may also shorten menstrual periods, at least to a small degree. [15] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source As weight loss can lead to shorter periods, altering your diet if you’re overweight may help with weight loss and therefore reduce period length. However, you should always talk to your doctor before making any decisions about losing weight.

Losing even a few hours of sleep can lead to increased stress, anger, and anxiety. All of these things can manipulate hormone levels and lead to a heavier, longer period. [16] X Research source Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, including weekends. Your body will adjust to this schedule and you’ll settle into a regular sleep schedule. When you wake up, set the alarm for the time you actually plan on being awake. Using the snooze button can lead to interrupted, unpleasant sleep that can leave you tired throughout the day. [17] X Research source